Arnautovic calls for holidayAustria’s World Cup hero, Ralf Rangnick, was very proud
The German coach celebrated Austria’s first participation in the World Cup since 1998. The coach, helped by a good luck charm, record player Arnautovic made a strange suggestion. Things didn’t look good in Vienna for a long time on Tuesday.
When the historic victory in Vienna was completed, Michael Gregoritsch fell to his knees. The Austrian goalscorer buried his face in his hands before a number of his teammates rushed and jumped towards him, beaming with joy. For the first time since 1998, the Alpine republic will take part in the World Cup. This is the current high point of the era of German coach Ralf Rangnick, who was “flat” but happy after the 1-1 draw against Bosnia-Herzegovina.
The 67-year-old sipped a Cola during a press conference to replenish his energy reserves after an intense group final with an early deficit and a video evidence goal disallowed. “Very high, very high,” said Rangnick describing his first participation in the World Cup. “Today it felt the same as any promotion or cup win with Schalke. Logically it’s at the same level.” The former Bundesliga coach even rejected FC Bayern in May 2024 because of moments like this.
Gregoritsch scored the “most beautiful goal” of his career
During matches he keeps his lucky charm, a mini replica of the World Cup trophy, in his left trouser pocket. “Thank God he did his job.” However, Rangnick had to shake for a long time at the Ernst Happel Stadium before his team forced the draw they needed to win the group. Gladbach’s Haris Tabakovic (12th minute) gave the visitors, coached by former HSV professional Sergej Barbarez, an early lead with a header. Only substitute Gregoritsch (77) saved the ÖFB selection from direct qualification.
“By far the best goal of my career,” the former Bundesliga striker commented on his goal from a few meters away on ServusTV. “There’s no better feeling. This is amazing! We did it, we made history.” The famous hero then stopped his interview with a smile: “Sorry, I have to celebrate!”
The players posed in front of a red and white fan curve with a poster (“WM 2026: Das crazy oida!”), and in the dressing room they danced to Austropop classics such as “I Am From Austria” and “Strada Del Sole”. Former Bremer Marko Arnautovic advised ORF in an “announcement to the government” that November 18 be declared a national holiday, “because we may not experience it again.” After the World Cup, “Arni” finally disappeared, he added.
First qualification since 1998
Going to tournaments in the US, Canada and Mexico next summer means “everything” to the players, Rangnick explained. For the generation surrounding 33-year-old star player David Alaba, which also includes 36-year-old national record player Arnautovic, it was the last chance.
“I have lived in Austria for three years and of course noticed how many people identify themselves with this team,” said Rangnick, who takes over as head at ÖFB in the summer of 2022. “That’s why I’m happy for every Austrian that we managed to be there again after 28 years.” At that time, the stars on former team boss Herbert Prohaska’s team were Toni Polster, Andreas Herzog and Michael Feiersinger. After the preliminary round they left France without a win. A long time ago.
Rangnick believes the current team can perform better than the old heroes. “If we are complete, then I think we have a good chance of qualifying in the group at the World Cup.” At the last European Championship, Rangnick had to play without the likes of Alaba and Leipzig’s Xaver Schlager, among others. After a strong preliminary round, the final stop was in the round of 16 against Türkiye (1:2).
“I’m now looking forward to the trip to Washington for the draw and then we’ll see who gets drawn,” Rangnick said. Austrian Ball will be in draw pot 3 on December 5, so there is a risk of tough odds. But that’s just a side note after a magical night in Vienna.
